[ GLOSSARY ]
What are worked examples?
Definition
Learning scienceWorked examples
A worked example is a fully solved problem that students study before solving similar problems on their own.
Why it matters for schools
Across 55 studies in math, worked examples gave g = 0.48; correct examples worked best, and prompts to self-explain weakened the effect (Barbieri et al., 2023). The design lesson: a correct example, then a similar problem done alone.
In practice
A full AI answer can work like a worked example, but only if a similar problem follows that the student solves without help. In Nexus, that is the job of Full answer with critique: use it after an attempt, then assign a fresh problem.
[ FAQ ]
Questions and answers
Do worked examples help students learn math?
Yes. Across 55 studies, worked examples in math gave g = 0.48.
Is an AI's solution a worked example?
It can be, if it is correct and the student then solves a similar problem alone.
When should students see a worked example?
When learning a new procedure, followed by practice on similar problems without help.
[ SOURCES ]
Sources
Facts checked Oct 18, 2026.
- 1Barbieri et al., worked examples in math meta-analysis, Educational Psychology ReviewJan 30, 2023 · doi.org
[ AI FOR SCHOOLS ]
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